Factors Influencing the Occurrence of Cyberbullying on Facebook among Undergraduate Students in Kenyan Universities

Abstract

This study investigated on factors influencing the occurrence of cyberbullying on Facebook among undergraduate students in Kenyan Universities. The study employed the mixed methods. Data was collected from 3,020 undergraduate students and 24 deans of students from 16 public and 8 private chartered universities in Kenya. A questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from students while qualitative data was collected through focus group discussions with the students and key informant interviews with the deans of students. Qualitative data was analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti while quantitative data was analysed statistically using STATA. The findings revealed that most undergraduate students in Kenyan universities experienced cyberbullying on Facebook. Factors which influenced the prevalence include number of friends and interactions on Facebook as well as selected demographic attributes. The study recommends that students should be made aware of the prevalence of cyberbullying through a comprehensive sensitisation programme in universities. Users of Facebook should be cautious about their interactions online by limiting friendships with strangers. Finally, students should use security settings to block or report bullying offences.